The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Abbas Tajudeen, has paid tribute to the late Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, calling him “a gallant military officer” whose passing marks a significant loss for Nigeria and its Armed Forces.
In a statement on Wednesday, issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Musa Krishi, Speaker Abbas expressed shock at the COAS’s death.
Lt. Gen. Lagbaja passed away on Tuesday night in Lagos, aged 56, following an illness, as announced by Presidential Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.
The Speaker highlighted Lagbaja’s achievements in his brief tenure as COAS, commending his visits to military bases, especially in conflict-prone areas of the North-East and North-West, where he inspired troops on the frontlines.
“His actions exemplified his dogged spirit and determination to make the country safe for all,” Abbas stated.
Speaker Abbas extended his condolences to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Lagbaja family, and the people and government of Osun State.
He prayed for the peaceful repose of Lt. Gen. Lagbaja’s soul.